Discover Good Nutrition, Fitness & Beautyhttp://www.discovergoodnutrition.com
Helping you live a healthy, active life.Sat, 10 Dec 2016 01:00:06 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.6.1Six Ways to Camouflage Dark Circleshttp://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/2016/12/how-to-camouflage-dark-circles/
http://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/2016/12/how-to-camouflage-dark-circles/#respondMon, 05 Dec 2016 15:00:01 +0000http://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/?p=6667Are your sparkling eyes getting dragged down by dark under-eye circles? We all get them on occasion and some of us seem to be stuck with them long-term. There are a few things that we can all do to help take the spotlight off of the dark circles and put it back on our eyes. […]

Find out more at: http://www.DiscoverHerbalife.com

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Hydrating does wonders for your skin.

Are your sparkling eyes getting dragged down by dark under-eye circles? We all get them on occasion and some of us seem to be stuck with them long-term. There are a few things that we can all do to help take the spotlight off of the dark circles and put it back on our eyes.

Those dark circles under our eyes can be such a downer. They make us look older and they make us look tired. I hate waking up to find dark circles just jumping off of my face. What color are my eyes? I have no idea because all I see are raccoon eyes! Not an attractive look for women or men.

Dark circles are only cute on Panda Bears

Dark circles for most of us are the result of fatigue, allergies, excessive rubbing of the eyes and even certain skin conditions, such as atopic or contact dermatitis. For others it’s due to heredity, and some ethnicities are more prone to dark circles than others. Under-eye dark circles are the result of thinning skin and loss of collagen and fat. Unfortunately this becomes more common as we start to age.

This thinning can make the reddish-blue blood vessels found under our eyes much more noticeable.

While there are many creams, serums and gels on the market to combat dark circles, it’s hard to find that perfect product. And sometimes it can take months before we start to see an improvement. But all hope is not lost. There are things we can do in the interim to help improve our overall look.

Here are some easy tips to help camouflage the area and reduce the appearance of those unsightly dark circles.

Put the focus on the eyes, not the skin around the eyes

Make your eyes stand out with my one go-to tip––an eyelash curler! Men, don’t tune out because this tip can work for you, too. You can pick up an inexpensive eyelash curler at any drug store. The curling will instantly make your eyes look larger by casting a shadow onto your brow bone. If you wear mascara, only apply to your top lashes. If you apply mascara to your bottom lashes, you run the risk of casting a shadow that will only add darkness to the skin under your eyes. I’ve mentioned in a previous post that an eyelash curler is one of my beauty must haves—once you start using one, you can never turn back!

A little tweezing goes a long way

There is nothing like the power of well-shaped eyebrows to help open up your eyes. Again, this tip is not just for women. Men should also be conscientious of their eyebrows to make sure they are well groomed. Get rid of any strays and tweeze just slightly to help accent the natural arch in your brow. Not comfortable doing this yourself? After one too many tweezing mishaps, I certainly can relate! Have your eyebrows done professionally the first time so you can see the difference, and get a better understanding of just where a few plucks will make a difference.

Just say no to lower lid lining

We tend to like the look of perfectly lined lids. However, by lining your lower lid, you risk putting emphasis on your dark circles. If eyeliner is your thing, apply a darker shade only on top. And if you must line your lower lid, choose a color that’s lighter. It’s a simple trick that really does work.

Perfect the art of eye shadow

Makeup is an amazing beauty tool. The more you practice your technique, the better you will be able to apply cosmetics. When it comes to eye shadow, try to avoid using dark colors on your upper eyelids. If you have dark circles, a smoky eye might not be the best look for you. Try using cooler pinks, light, natural mochas or plum colors. Or better yet, go for a monochromatic eye. Use one single shade of eye shadow in a lighter shade, and apply on your eyelid and brow bone. Use highlighter on your brow bone and the inner corner of your eyes to help brighten the area. By keeping your makeup fresh and neutral, it will definitely draw the attention away from the under eye area. Be sure to have fun with your look and play around with colors to see what works for you.

Cover up with concealer

A good concealer is your best line of defense against dark under-eye circles. While I know that most men don’t wear makeup, there is nothing wrong with a little concealer to help banish the dark circles! If you do it correctly, no one will even notice you’re wearing it. It’s important when using concealer to always counterbalance the most prominent under tone of your dark circles. Yellow-based concealers are perfect for most dark circles. But this is trial and error. I learned a long time ago not to try to shade match my foundations or concealers by myself. What looked good in the store always looked a bit off when I applied it at home. I have an entire drawer of only-worn-once products due to my miscalculations. Now I rely on the experts at the cosmetic counters to help me pick the right shades. They are a huge help and provide a service that ultimately can save a lot of time and money.

Make sure your concealer shade is a bit lighter than your skin tone or foundation. Look for something that’s creamy in texture so it won’t settle into any fine lines and cracks during the day. Don’t make the mistake of using too much concealer or applying it under your entire eye. Only apply the product where the actual dark circles are. Usually this is a small semi-circle that starts near your inner eye and goes downwards towards your cheek. Use your fingers, damp makeup sponge or a soft brush to apply your concealer to the dark areas only. It’s always a good idea to apply your concealer last. This way, you can be sure to clean up any makeup that may have landed in the under-eye area prior to applying. Remember, use your concealer sparingly. You don’t want to draw even more attention to the area.

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate

If you really want to take care of the skin around your eyes and ensure that your makeup goes on smoothly, invest in a quality hydrating eye cream or gel. Hydration always makes the skin look a bit plumper and smoother. This will only help with the application of your concealer and truly help diminish the appearance of those dark circles. And, yes, gentlemen this means you, too. Both men and women will benefit from a good skin care regimen, and a hydrating eye product is a necessity.

I really wish there was a magical product to eliminate dark circles once and for all. Until then, we can continue to look for some quick fixes through trial and error.

Find out more at: http://www.DiscoverHerbalife.com

]]>http://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/2016/12/how-to-camouflage-dark-circles/feed/0Fitness motivation: 12 reasons to work out today!http://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/2016/12/fitness-motivation-2/
http://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/2016/12/fitness-motivation-2/#respondMon, 05 Dec 2016 14:00:52 +0000http://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/?p=7268Are you struggling to find some fitness motivation this week? Is the idea of squeezing into that outfit or adjusting your belt buckle to a smaller hole not giving you the motivational push you need? If you’re looking for some reasons to get in shape, then here are 12 reasons to get you motivated today! […]

Find out more at: http://www.DiscoverHerbalife.com

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Regular exercise provides a wide range
of health benefits.

Are you struggling to find some fitness motivation this week? Is the idea of squeezing into that outfit or adjusting your belt buckle to a smaller hole not giving you the motivational push you need? If you’re looking for some reasons to get in shape, then here are 12 reasons to get you motivated today!

With the holiday season upon us, we may all need a little bit of extra fitness motivation to help us stay focused with our health goals. I talk a lot about the internal health benefits associated with leading a healthy and active lifestyle. Improved health is the primary reason we need to exercise and consume a nutritious diet. We are often easily motivated by our external appearance, but it’s always changing—especially as we age. It feels like we have to work twice as hard and be twice as disciplined to get the same results that came so easily when we were younger. Change is something we all have to accept. Your body may be continually changing both internally and externally, but your desire to be healthy should never change.

1: Heart health:

Engaging in cardiovascular activity is good for your heart. Your heart is a muscle, and pushing it to work hard a few days each week may help to improve your cardiac output. If you engage in cardiovascular activity on a regular basis, you may lower your overall resting heart rate, which is good for your health long term.

2: Glowing skin:

When you exercise, you increase the blood flow around your body. Your post-workout glow may not last all day, but you may look more radiant right after your session. If you’re lucky, the healthy glow will make you look and feel great.

3: Improved posture:

Exercising on a regular basis may make you become more aware of your posture. As you gain body confidence and movement awareness, you become more conscious of what feels right for your body. Slouching may become a bad habit of the past. As an extra bonus, good posture makes you look taller.

4: Fewer aches and pains:

If you have sore and stiff joints that are caused from sitting down all day, moving more often will help to alleviate that stiffness. Joints that are immobile tend to get sore. Once you’re moving on a regular basis, you improve the range of motion, and movements of everyday living become easier to perform.

5: Improved body composition:

When you make exercise a part of your lifestyle, you will start to notice changes in how you look and feel. You may lose excess body fat and gain lean muscle mass—which is not only great for your appearance, but it also helps your body to become more efficient at burning calories. A body with a high percentage of lean muscle mass requires more calories just to sustain itself than a person of the same weight who has a higher percentage of body fat.

6: Feel happier:

Performing physical exercise can make you feel happier in your daily life. One of the reasons for this is that your body releases an increased amount of endorphins when you’re active. Endorphins are your body’s natural happy hormone. You may also feel happier because you’re taking good care of your body. This sense of accomplishment can often make you have a greater sense of well-being.

7: Control your weight:

Exercise can help prevent excess weight gain and help maintain weight loss. When you engage in physical activity, you burn calories. The more intense the activity, the more calories you burn.

8: More energy:

Regular physical activity can improve your muscle strength and boost your endurance. When you exercise, your body must deliver oxygen and nutrients to your tissues to help your cardiovascular system work more efficiently. When your heart and lungs work more efficiently, you have more energy to go about your daily tasks.

9: Boost brain power:

Working out on a regular basis may help to improve your brain function. Various studies have shown that cardiovascular exercise can create new brain cells (neurogenesis) and improve overall brain performance. Studies suggest that a tough workout may also increase levels of a brain-derived protein (known as BDNF) in the body. BDNF is believed to help with decision-making and higher learning.

10: Less stress:

Exercise may act as a temporary diversion to daily stress. When you’re exercising or having fun doing activities, you’re generally not thinking about the things in your life that are difficult. Taking time out of your busy day to focus on yourself can reduce the feeling of stress. Less stress can also help with weight loss, because many people eat unhealthy foods to combat stress.

11: Meet new people:

Exercise provides an opportunity for social interaction that may otherwise be lacking in your life. Starting a new activity can help you find a new circle of friends or provide you with a healthier opportunity to reconnect with old ones. So often we go out to eat to socialize, but doing an activity is much better for your waistline!

12: Better sleep:

Being active can help to improve your sleep habits for several reasons. Exercising raises your body’s core temperature. As it cools back down to normal, it can help you to feel relaxed and ready to sleep. Because activity can help reduce your stress levels, drifting off at night may become easier.

There you have it—my top 12 fitness motivation reasons.

Find out more at: http://www.DiscoverHerbalife.com

]]>http://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/2016/12/fitness-motivation-2/feed/0Afternoon energy slump? Tips to get your zing back!http://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/2016/12/afternoon-energy-crash/
http://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/2016/12/afternoon-energy-crash/#commentsMon, 05 Dec 2016 13:00:39 +0000http://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/?p=7422Does your energy sag in the afternoon? Here are some tips to help you avoid the afternoon energy crash. Does your energy sag in the afternoon? Here are some tips to help you avoid the afternoon energy crash. Afternoon crash. Siesta time. After-lunch slump. The two o’clock droop. Whatever you call it, most of us […]

Does your energy sag in the afternoon? Here are some tips to help you avoid the afternoon energy crash.

Does your energy sag in the afternoon? Here are some tips to help you avoid the afternoon energy crash.
Afternoon crash. Siesta time. After-lunch slump. The two o’clock droop. Whatever you call it, most of us have experienced it from time to time—it’s that point at which your energy level simply takes a nosedive in the middle of the afternoon.

You may feel more than just a crash in your energy level. That after-lunch slump can make you feel a little irritable, too. Maybe you’ve got a mild headache or feel as if you’re not thinking very clearly. And almost certainly that energy crash is causing some serious sugar cravings, too.

What Causes the Afternoon Crash?

Your body’s natural internal clock is partly to blame for the afternoon energy dip. Everyone’s energy level ebbs and flows during a 24-hour period, and for most of us, the strongest drive to sleep comes on a few hours after midnight. But another dip—although not usually quite as powerful—also naturally occurs in the early-to-mid afternoon. By that time of day, most people have been up and alert for 6 or 8 hours or so, and the natural need for sleep is starting to build—and you feel the crash coming on.

Since these internal rhythms can get disrupted or accentuated if you don’t get enough sleep, establishing a healthy sleep schedule is really important in helping you maintain your energy all day long.

But what you eat—and when—also factors in.

The Right Carbs Help Keep You Energized All Day Long

If your energy regularly droops in the afternoon, it’s time to take a closer look at your eating habits. That afternoon energy crash could be due—in large part—because you’re simply not providing your body with the proper fuel at the proper times.

Let’s look first at the carbohydrates that you eat. The sugar in your bloodstream (called your blood glucose or blood sugar) is what your body relies on to provide the energy you need to get you through your day. And your blood sugar comes almost entirely from the carbohydrates that you eat in your diet. But different carbohydrates have different effects on your blood sugar.

When you eat sugary foods or highly refined carbohydrates—like soda or white bread—they’re digested relatively quickly, releasing a surge of glucose into your bloodstream. And while this energy surge might sound like a good thing, it generally doesn’t last very long. That’s because your body prefers it when sugar trickles more slowly and steadily into your system.

So, when you dump a load of sugar and refined carbs into your system and your blood sugar shoots up, your body sort of “over-corrects” —which sends your blood sugar plummeting. When your blood sugar drops, that’s when you might start craving unhealthy sugary snacks to bring blood levels back up.
Many people get an energy slump in the afternoon because they’re eating the wrong carbohydrates. They’ll start the day with something like a sugary cereal—which causes the blood sugar to shoot up and, almost as quickly, to crash back down again. That might trigger a sugar craving, which they’ll satisfy with a pastry or some candy, and the cycle repeats. Since they’re not providing their body with a slow, steady fuel source, their energy levels might feel like a roller-coaster all day long.

On the other hand, when you get your carbohydrates from foods like vegetables, whole fruits and whole grains, they take longer to digest. Instead of a causing a big spike in your blood sugar, eating these foods allows glucose to more slowly enter the bloodstream and helps provide more sustained energy over a longer period of time.

How to Eat to Keep Energy Levels Up

In order to keep your energy levels up and avoid the afternoon energy slump, you need well-balanced meals and snacks, and you need to eat every few hours. People who skip meals just can’t keep going all day long. When you don’t eat at regular intervals, your blood sugar is going to drop—taking your energy level along with it.

Just as not eating enough can zap your energy, eating too much at lunch can make you feel sluggish in the afternoon, too. (Some people do both. They skip breakfast then eat an enormous lunch because they’re starving—and then wonder why they’re out of steam most of the day.) When you eat a big, heavy meal, a lot of energy is required to digest it. As blood gets diverted towards your digestive tract to help the process along, you’ll start feeling the need to take a nap.

Staying well-hydrated is important, too. When you become dehydrated, it can affect your mood and your ability to think clearly. Keep water and herbal teas handy and sip on them throughout the day. Some people rely on caffeinated beverages in order to stay perky. This isn’t necessarily a problem unless caffeine interferes with your ability to get a good night’s sleep. If you’re sensitive to it, best to stick with caffeine-free beverages.

Protein foods help to make meals more filling and satisfying, which is why one of the defenses against the afternoon slump is a good offense—in the form of a balanced lunch that includes some lean protein. Make sure your lunch includes some low-fat protein to help fight hunger, and a supply of good carbs to provide you with a steady energy source. A mixed vegetable salad with some grilled fish, a chicken-veggie stir-fry with brown rice, or a protein shake with fruit would all fill the bill at lunch time.
A mid-afternoon snack that includes protein should also be part of your overall plan. A lot of people try to get by without snacking because they feel it just adds extra calories to their day—but they usually just make up for it by eating a really big dinner.

Protein shakes work great as a mid-afternoon snack, or you can also try a protein bar, a carton of yogurt with some fruit, some raw veggies with hummus, or a can of tuna with a handful of cherry tomatoes. Again, the combination of lean protein and beneficial carbohydrates will help keep the afternoon slump away and help keep you satisfied—and energized—all afternoon long.

Written by Susan Bowerman. Susan is Director of Worldwide Nutrition Education and Training at Herbalife. Susan is a Registered Dietitian and a board-certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics.

Find out more at: http://www.DiscoverHerbalife.com

]]>http://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/2016/12/afternoon-energy-crash/feed/4Healthy Nails Equal Strong Nailshttp://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/2016/11/healthy-nails-equal-strong-nails/
Mon, 28 Nov 2016 14:30:47 +0000http://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/?p=9785/?p=9785The appearance and strength of your fingernails are good indicators of their overall health. Healthy-looking nails are usually strong nails. Are your nails everything you want them to be or are they brittle, do they break easily or never seem to grow? If they are not up to par, then you are not alone. Sure, […]

Find out more at: http://www.DiscoverHerbalife.com

]]>The appearance and strength of your fingernails are good indicators of their overall health. Healthy-looking nails are usually strong nails.

Are your nails everything you want them to be or are they brittle, do they break easily or never seem to grow? If they are not up to par, then you are not alone. Sure, there are ways to camouflage the condition of your nails with polish, gels and even acrylics. But, did you know that there are a few habits that you can develop to truly make a difference in your nails?

Just like our skin and hair, nail health is also tied to diet. If your nails are brittle and weak, then you want to evaluate how much protein you are eating. Your nails are comprised of protein so, if you aren’t getting enough in your diet, it will be reflected in your nails. Protein shakes are great for adding necessary protein to your diet, as are eggs, meat, fish, beans and legumes. Be conscientious of the foods you are eating if your nails are weak and brittle. There can be other reasons, of course, why nails might not be strong. Remember to check with your doctor if you are concerned about your circulation or chronic problems with your fingers and nails.

Regular maintenance is key.

Trimming your nails on a regular basis will help to keep them strong. When you allow your nails to constantly grow without trimming, they tend to get rough and jagged in appearance. When this happens, they are more likely to get weak or break. Think of your nails in the same way you think about your hair. A regular trimming will help remove the weaker, damaged areas that develop at the tips, encouraging the rest of the nail to strengthen. They will look fresher and healthier as a result. Here are a few trimming tips:

Be sure to you have clippers or nail scissors that are sharp and meant for fingernails. In other words, a plain old pair of scissors is not the right tool.

Don’t trim your nails too short. When you go too short, you run the risk of developing hangnails and we all know that they are not fun. They are just too tempting to pick or bite and unfortunately, if you do this, you run the risk of infection, not to mention haggard-looking nails.

Let the white edges of your nail be your guide and never trim past this area. You should always have visible white edges post-trimming.

There is a right way and a wrong way to file.

Yes, something so simple as filing your nails can actually weaken them when not done properly. It’s important to select an emery board for nail filing. They are available in fine or course textures, similar to sand paper. When you file your nails, you should never file back and forth, as if you’re sawing your nails. You should always file in one direction. And do this in a gentle way. Remember, your goal is to strengthen the nail by removing the ragged areas so they don’t split or fray. When you file too hard or in a back-and-forth motion, you run the risk of damaging the fibers in your nails, which only causes them to weaken more. A little regular and gentle filing will keep your nails in top shape and they will be less prone to tearing.

Moisturize and condition.

Just like your hands, your nails can become dry, too, and will benefit from a good conditioning. Hand creams and lotions are great for both your skin and your nails. Remember to apply hand cream on a regular basis, especially after washing them. Take a few extra seconds to massage your cream into your nails and surrounding cuticles. Ingredients like aloe, shea butter and olive oil are great when it comes to conditioning. Keep your favorite hand cream on your nightstand and apply before you got to sleep. You will wake up with hydrated hands and nails that will not only look good, they will feel good, too. Remember, when your nails get dry, they can become brittle and more prone to breakage.

Go bare.

Sure, most women love to get their nails done. But, if strong nails are your goal, then it’s good to go au naturel once in a while. Think about it, filing, buffing, base coats, color, topcoat, gels, acrylic fills and more definitely affect your nails. Give them a break. Again, similar to your hair when you take a break from your styling aids and heating devices, your hair will flourish. Same rule apply to your nails. Give them a break so they can stay strong and not break.

Protection is key.

When doing household chores, especially those that involve hot water or harsh chemicals, wear gloves. You want to keep your hands and nails protected from being exposed to damaging and drying chemicals at all costs. Wearing gloves when you are washing the dishes or cleaning your house is the best way to keep nails from becoming weak and damaged due to exposure.

Everyone wants healthy-looking nails and by following these simple steps, you too will have fabulous nails in no time. Remember that what you put in and on your body is equally important. So, take care of your nails and they will be stronger in no time.

]]>Six Great Reasons to Strength Trainhttp://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/2016/11/six-great-reasons-to-strength-train/
Mon, 28 Nov 2016 13:30:18 +0000http://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/?p=9809/?p=9809Working on muscular strength and endurance can help you to achieve many goals related to health, fitness and weight loss. Whether you are trying to lose weight, gain weight or maintain your current body composition, strength training can help you to achieve your body-focused goals while improving the way you feel. Here are a few […]

Find out more at: http://www.DiscoverHerbalife.com

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Strength training promotes weight loss.

Working on muscular strength and endurance can help you to achieve many goals related to health, fitness and weight loss.

Whether you are trying to lose weight, gain weight or maintain your current body composition, strength training can help you to achieve your body-focused goals while improving the way you feel. Here are a few of my favorite strength training benefits:

Weight loss. When your overall body weight is made up of a lot of lean muscle, your body needs more calories to sustain that muscle. Muscle is more metabolically active than fat and can, therefore, help you to burn a few extra calories a day at rest. However, I believe that the excitement of having more lean muscle mass goes far beyond the calorie burn, including increased strength and reduced risk of injury.

Increased lean body mass: Strength training, when combined with protein-rich foods, can help to prevent or minimize the loss of lean body mass that is typically a by-product of dieting. Quite often when people cut their daily calories in order to lose weight, the weight lost is not always healthy or sustainable. When people are dieting without exercise, they can lose body fat in addition to healthy muscle tissue, which can play havoc with your body weight long term.

Appearance: Strength training can favorably affect your overall body composition, resulting in a greater proportion of lean tissue relative to fat tissue. This can greatly enhance your overall appearance and reduce your dress size. Muscle takes up less space in the body per pound than fat, so having lean muscle mass can make you both look and feel great.

Tighter skin: Although strength training itself does not actually tighten the skin, it can make your skin look tighter, especially if you have lost a lot of body fat and are suffering from loose skin as a result. When you lose fat and build muscle, the appearance of loose and sagging skin can be greatly improved.

Antiaging: Strength training can help to counteract natural age-related muscle loss, known as sarcopenia. Losing muscle mass as we age is just a part of the aging process in the same way that we naturally lose bone density. If you continue to strength train as you age, you can keep on top of this loss. The good news is that it’s never too late to get started. Even if you have lost muscle mass as part of the aging process, you can start to train and rebuild it at any age.

Strength: The training adaptations that happen in the body as a result of strength training can greatly enhance the activities of daily living, such as lifting, standing, walking and enjoying simple activities. If you love to play sports, strength training can also help you to improve your overall performance.

Training for strength does not have to mean lifting weights. You can improve your strength with body weight exercises, resistance bands or objects that you have around the house, such as water bottles. A lot of the time, women believe that strength training means getting heavier and looking bulky, but it’s not true, unless you want to specifically get that result.

Written by Samantha Clayton, AFAA, ISSA. Samantha is Sr. Director of Fitness Education at Herbalife.

Find out more at: http://www.DiscoverHerbalife.com

]]>Six Tips to Survive the Holiday Party Seasonhttp://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/2016/11/happy-hour-calorie-count/
Mon, 21 Nov 2016 15:00:02 +0000http://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/?p=7523Happy hour can result in many more calories than most dieters assume, but that doesn’t mean you need to skip it altogether. With a little calorie control, you can get through happy hour without blowing your diet this holiday season. Happy hour is the dieter’s perfect storm. The combination of inexpensive cocktails and often free […]

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Calories in drinks can add up.

Happy hour can result in many more calories than most dieters assume, but that doesn’t mean you need to skip it altogether. With a little calorie control, you can get through happy hour without blowing your diet this holiday season.

Happy hour is the dieter’s perfect storm. The combination of inexpensive cocktails and often free snack foods also brings a deluge of calories—before you’re even aware of how much damage you’ve actually done. While you enjoy unwinding with friends, the alcohol might start to loosen your determination to keep your calories in check. Then there are the snacks, which are plentiful and readily available—and often salty enough to fire up your thirst, which is then quenched with another drink.

How to Control Your Calories at Happy Hour

Happy hour is never just an hour. Many bars and restaurants host longer events—extending the hours just long enough to entice you to stay for dinner. So, by the time you sit down for a meal, those happy hour cocktails and appetizers could already have set you back by 1,000 calories or more.
It’s easy to lose track of how many calories you’re taking in at happy hour. That doesn’t mean you have to avoid socializing with friends, but it does help to have a strategy for handling happy hour.

Here are some tips to help you.

Snack before you go. With so much inexpensive, high-calorie food that’s often served up at happy hour, the last thing you want to do is to arrive with an empty stomach. Have a high protein snack late in the afternoon to tide you over until dinner—some Greek style yogurt, a protein shake, a few slices of turkey with some whole grain crackers or a bit of cottage cheese and fruit should do it.

Choose appetizers wisely. The snacks and appetizers that are typically offered at happy hour tend to be greasy, salty and high-calorie. And since the foods aren’t “plated up” like a meal, it makes it more difficult to keep track of how much you’ve eaten and how many calories you’ve put away. Get acquainted with the calorie counts of happy hour items (see the list below). Look for lower calorie items—like some raw veggies and hummus dip, some edamame (green soybeans) or maybe a shrimp cocktail. If you want to dig into the snacks, it’s best to ask your server for a small plate and portion out a few items for yourself. When your plate is empty, you’re done!

Know the calories in your drinks. If you are planning to drink alcohol, your lowest calorie choices are beer and wine. A bottle of light beer or glass of wine has around 100 calories—far and away a better choice than many mixed drinks (see calorie chart below). That’s because hard alcohol has over 100 calories per shot, and the mixers and add-ins (like sodas, fruit juices, syrups and cream) can drive the calories sky high.

Establish a limit before you go. Establish a budget ahead of time. Know the amount of calories you have to spend, and how you will spend them on your cocktails and appetizers.
Alternate your drinks. Once you’ve had one alcoholic beverage, switch to something that’s calorie-free, like some sparkling water, iced tea or a diet soda with a twist. Some people feel that having a drink in hand makes them appear more sociable—but that doesn’t mean that the drink has to have alcohol or calories!

Focus on the fun. If your happy hour is mainly focused on food and cocktails, it’s time to shift your attention to the quality time you’re having with your friends. Being sociable doesn’t require that you have a cocktail in your hand or plateful of snacks in front of you.

Calories in Typical Happy Hour Food

Serving sizes and preparation techniques vary a lot from place to place, so it’s difficult to place an exact calorie count on the items you might find at happy hour. I used online information from several restaurant chains to come up with a range of calories—per order—for these typical happy hour treats.

Written by Susan Bowerman. Susan is Director of Worldwide Nutrition Education and Training at Herbalife. Susan is a Registered Dietitian and a board-certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics.

Find out more at: http://www.DiscoverHerbalife.com

]]>Holiday Beauty Tipshttp://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/2016/11/holiday-beauty-tips/
Mon, 21 Nov 2016 14:00:20 +0000http://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/?p=8619Even with the hectic pace of the holidays, it’s still possible to look fabulous by making a few adjustments to your beauty routine. The holiday season can be incredibly busy for all of us. There are trees to decorate, cards to write, cookies to bake and all of those shopping trips to the mall. It’s […]

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Tips to get you through the party season.

Even with the hectic pace of the holidays, it’s still possible to look fabulous by making a few adjustments to your beauty routine.

The holiday season can be incredibly busy for all of us. There are trees to decorate, cards to write, cookies to bake and all of those shopping trips to the mall. It’s exhausting just thinking about it. But the most fun of all is attending the holiday parties and, of course, the party of the year––New Year’s Eve. You’ve got the perfect dress. You’ve found the perfect shoes. But with the hectic schedule and no time to primp, how can you possibly look your most fabulous?

No worries. Here are some beauty tips to get you through the party season seamlessly:

No More Kiss-Away Lips

Holiday parties always involve a lot of kissing. We kiss hello, we kiss goodbye and we kiss under the mistletoe. The last thing we want to do is spend the whole night reapplying our favorite holiday shade of lipstick. Remember, for every family member you kiss on the cheek, you are most likely giving them a take-home gift of your lipstick on their face. So, to keep your lipstick intact, avoid the glossy and go matte. First, apply a layer of your favorite lip balm to keep lips hydrated. Then apply your favorite shade of matte lipstick. Your lips will look kissable a lot longer and you won’t have to worry about leaving your mark on everyone’s cheek.

Holiday Nail Nuisances

Our hands definitely take a beating during the holiday season. Gift-wrapping, baking or just playing in the snow is not great for our holiday party manicure. But who even has time to stop and get a manicure this time of year? If you happen to chip a nail and ruin your perfect polish, no worries. This is the one time of the year when a glittery polish is totally on trend. Rather than re-polish your nails, just apply a bit of glittery polish with a clear or complementary base to the tips of your nails. The glitter will blend beautifully and hide the chips beneath.

Bye-Bye Flyaways

Between the weather, the dry air, the forced heat and our favorite winter scarf and hat, our hair doesn’t stand a chance. Flyaways definitely become normal this time of year. Not a big deal if you are home wrapping presents, but a big deal if you are at your husband’s office party. Keep a travel size bottle of hairspray in your bag at all times to tame those pesky little hairs. Gently comb the flyaways back down to keep your hair looking smooth and polished. If you have a spare toothbrush, give it a quick blast of hair spray and focus on just the flyaway pieces. Your hair will maintain its polished party look all night, and you won’t look like you have an over-sprayed helmet head.

Mascara Mishap

Long, lush lashes can really make your holiday look. But when you’re rushing to put your face on, the last thing you need is a mascara mess up. Always use an eyelash curler to give your lashes that extra oomph they so deserve. But when applying your mascara, be careful not to make a mess. There’s nothing worse than messy mascara! Try placing a spoon on your eyelid as you swipe your mascara on. This way if there’s a mishap, it will end up on the spoon and not your eyelids.

Stylize Your Hair with Zero Effort

No time for the salon but in desperate need of a glamorous holiday do? Go simple. Pull your hair back in a loose ponytail, elegant braid or even a low chignon, and then tuck in a sparkly piece of jewelry for added flair. Secure with a few sticky bobby pins (just spray your bobby pins with some hair spray and allow to dry before inserting), and your hair will be ready to ring in the New Year. A simple hairstyle will be kicked up a notch just by adding a bit of sparkle.

That’s it. Follow these tips during the holiday party season and you’ll look fabulous as you celebrate with your dear friends and family.

]]>Make Holiday Season Fitness a Priorityhttp://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/2016/11/holiday-season-fitness/
Mon, 21 Nov 2016 13:30:07 +0000http://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/?p=8549Staying motivated with a fitness plan during the holidays can be difficult for some. Here is a list of fitness essentials that will help to keep you healthy and active during the holidays. The holiday season can test the willpower of even the most dedicated fitness and health enthusiasts. So, this holiday season, set yourself […]

Find out more at: http://www.DiscoverHerbalife.com

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Stay motivated and dedicated.

Staying motivated with a fitness plan during the holidays can be difficult for some. Here is a list of fitness essentials that will help to keep you healthy and active during the holidays.

The holiday season can test the willpower of even the most dedicated fitness and health enthusiasts. So, this holiday season, set yourself up for success with some fitness and nutrition essentials that may help you to keep your weight loss or body composition goals on track.
Related Article:No gym? Try this body-weight workout to get fit!
Here are some of my favorites:

Calorie Tracking App

Keeping track of your daily calorie intake is especially important during the holidays. Download a calorie tracking app so that you can stay as close to your daily target as possible. Keeping your weight stable over the holidays is important, and having technology at your fingertips may help you to avoid high-calorie party snacks.

Activity Tracker

Wearable fitness devices are everywhere these days, and they can be helpful for improving your fitness level and keeping track of your daily activity minutes. There are several wearable devices to choose from, so consider selecting one that is easy to use and has the ability to remind you that it is time to get moving.

Reflective Clothing

As the weather cools down and nights get darker earlier, exercising outdoors can be a challenge. Investing in some warm running clothing with reflective strips can help to keep you safe and warm outside.

New Running Shoes

Winter is a good time to invest in some new running shoes. Poor weather conditions can make the ground slippery, so having running shoes with good tread at this time of the year is important. A lot of new models are often released during the holiday season, which will make shopping for new shoes a lot of fun.

Mini Stretch Bands

Mini stretch bands come in various colors and resistance levels. They are inexpensive, easy to travel with and are perfect for using to warm up the hips, glutes, shoulders and back. You can create a full-body efficient warm-up, or use them for a fast and effective resistance routine. Mini bands are perfect for a quick, at-home workout or for use during holiday travel.

New Music

When you really need a boost, put some new, inspirational workout songs on your playlist. Music is great for motivating you to get off the couch, helping you to run that extra mile, or pushing through a heavy lifting session. Download some new music or reshuffle your existing library to keep your workouts interesting.

Wireless Headphones

During the colder months, we often wear lots of layers for exercising. Even if you are working out indoors, you still need to get warmed up before removing outer layers. Traditional headphones with wires tend to get in the way, so consider investing in a new wireless pair. You may find that you spend less time adjusting and moving wires out of the way and more time truly focused on your training session.

Foam Roller

Avoid paying for costly massages and do it yourself at home. A foam roller is a helpful tool for stretching and loosening tight muscles. It can be used on multiple parts of your body, and it’s particularly helpful for stretching your hamstring muscles prior to performing any high-intensity exercise.

Hand Sanitizer

Nothing will halt your workout plan faster than catching a cold or flu, so arm yourself with hand sanitizer and use it often during the winter months.

Jump Rope

Jumping rope is a good old-fashioned way to warm up and get your heart rate going. Warming up for 10 minutes increases your core body temperature, gets synovial fluid moving and oils your joints, which will help prevent injury. If you don’t have time to go to the gym, you can use an interval style training method and use your jump rope for your entire routine.

Heart Rate Monitor

If you’re doing high intensity interval exercises, you may want to invest in a heart rate monitor. In these types of exercises, you want to raise your heart rate up to, or beyond, your calculated maximum heart rate (220 minus your age) for 20 to 30 seconds, followed by a short recovery period. You want to make sure you’re pushing yourself to your anaerobic threshold to get the best training results. It’s almost impossible to accurately measure your heart rate manually when it is above 150, so investing in a heart rate monitor is a great idea.

Protein Snack Bars

Consuming a healthy protein-rich snack before attending holiday parties is a great way to ensure that you stay on track with your weight loss or weight maintenance goals. Protein is perfect for helping you to feel full and curb unnecessary party snacking.

Staying on track during the holidays takes a lot of dedication. Finding simple, but effective ways to stay motivated and dedicated is important. Tracking your calorie intake and making smart food choices when possible will help you to maintain your figure and stay in control. If you don’t need the extra help yourself, consider giving a healthy, active lifestyle gift to a friend this holiday season.

]]>What to Do With Leftovers?http://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/2016/11/what-to-do-with-leftovers/
Mon, 21 Nov 2016 13:00:56 +0000http://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/?p=524You’ve heard it time and again. For many people (and I may be one of them) the best part of Thanksgiving is the leftovers. Don’t get me wrong, I love the holiday and all the preparations. But after a couple of days of gearing up, it seems like the meal goes by in a flash. […]

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Great ideas for holiday leftovers

You’ve heard it time and again. For many people (and I may be one of them) the best part of Thanksgiving is the leftovers. Don’t get me wrong, I love the holiday and all the preparations. But after a couple of days of gearing up, it seems like the meal goes by in a flash. So, it’s nice to have a leisurely weekend to get creative with the leftovers.

While I don’t know exactly what’s in your fridge the day after the holiday, it’s safe to say that you’re likely to have turkey, some potatoes (white and or sweet), a bit of cranberry sauce, a little stuffing, a dab of gravy and probably a container of the ever-popular green bean casserole. Reheating is fine, but after a couple of meals, I’m usually looking for a change in taste.

Hands down, my favorite thing to make after the holiday is turkey soup. Once the turkey bones have been stripped of all their meat, I simmer them with onion, celery, carrots, salt and pepper for a few hours to produce a heavenly stock. From there, you can do a basic turkey noodle, or add your leftover mashed potatoes for a creamy soup base. A dab of leftover gravy will add a lot of flavor – but go easy, since it’s loaded with calories.

The turkey lends itself to a million uses, but if you have so much left over that you don’t think you’ll use it in a few days, shred it into meal-sized portions and freeze. It’s great to have it handy to add to dishes like soup, pasta or burritos. Here’s something you may not have thought of—turkey lettuce cups. Heat up some minced leftover turkey with some diced scallions and a little Chinese hoisin sauce, then spoon into iceberg lettuce leaves. It’s light and a refreshing change from the usual turkey sandwiches.

Cranberry sauce is amazing on top of plain yogurt or oatmeal, or spooned over mixed fresh fruit for a quick dessert. You can also blend it with nonfat cream cheese for a tasty spread for your whole grain toast. I also like to spike my cranberry sauce with some ginger, garlic and soy sauce and serve on grilled fish or tofu. It tastes like a really sophisticated barbecue sauce.

If your original sweet potato dish wasn’t too sweet, you can dice up the leftovers with the leftover turkey, then sauté with some onions and other veggies for a one-dish hash. Serve with a green salad and you’re all set. Sweet potatoes would also make the start of a pretty great curry with some leftover turkey added.

Stuffing and green bean casserole are some of the highest calorie leftovers, so you’ll want to use them sparingly, and stretch them out with some healthier ingredients. Add some canned tomatoes and chopped turkey to your leftover stuffing to make a filling for stuffed peppers. And that leftover green bean casserole? Try heating it up with some white wine or broth, then add some garlic and hot pepper flakes and toss with some whole grain pasta.

Written by Susan Bowerman. Susan is Director of Worldwide Nutrition Education and Training at Herbalife. Susan is a Registered Dietitian and a board-certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics.

Find out more at: http://www.DiscoverHerbalife.com

]]>Dry Skin Vs. Dehydrated Skin: What’s the Difference?http://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/2016/11/dry-skin-vs-dehydrated-skin/
Mon, 14 Nov 2016 15:00:04 +0000http://www.discovergoodnutrition.com/?p=9411/?p=9411Do you know the difference between dry skin and dehydrated skin? Let’s take a closer look and find out. Water is essential to the entire body; after all, our bodies are made up of approximately 70% water. Keeping the body hydrated both internally and externally is something that we all need to do to look […]

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Hydration is key to healthy skin.

Do you know the difference between dry skin and dehydrated skin? Let’s take a closer look and find out.

Water is essential to the entire body; after all, our bodies are made up of approximately 70% water. Keeping the body hydrated both internally and externally is something that we all need to do to look and feel good. When our bodies become dehydrated, many things can happen and none of them are good. The most obvious is that we become thirsty. But, we can also experience dry mouth, muscle cramping, headaches, nausea and loss of energy. And, our skin can suffer, too. But dehydrated skin and dry skin are two different things.

Dry skin is considered a skin type. Like oily skin, normal skin, combination skin, etc. When your skin is dry, it has almost no oil present on the surface. Dry skin can get better or worse due to internal and external factors including weather, season, skincare regimen or lack thereof, and so much more. People who experience dry skin usually have visible, flaky patches of skin on the surface. They tend to be sensitive to temperature extremes and their fine lines and wrinkles are more noticeable. The upside is that those with dry skin tend to have fewer breakouts than those with oily skin.

If you have dry skin, you definitely need to choose a facial cleanser that is formulated for dry skin to help replenish that much-needed moisture. You will want to use a facial serum coupled with daytime and nighttime moisturizer to help nourish your dry skin. And, of course, you want to keep your entire body hydrated with a nourishing body lotion to apply immediately after your bath or shower when the skin is still damp. The good thing about dry skin is that you can help alleviate the symptoms and keep your skin looking fabulous!

Dehydrated skin is an actual skin condition that can affect any skin type, no matter what type you have. In other words, everyone’s skin is prone to dehydration! Dehydrated skin is the result of the body needing moisture, both inside and out. As Herbalife Nutrition Expert Susan Bowerman always says, most people need 8–12 cups of fluid a day (about 2–3 liters), but the needs vary somewhat, depending on your age, gender and activity level.

When it comes to dehydrated skin there are some obvious signs to look for. Your skin will look dull, sallow and tired in its appearance. It may feel tight, sensitive and, in some cases, like it’s burning. It can look red, irritated and take on a rough, flaky-looking texture. And, unfortunately, any fine lines and wrinkles that you may have can become much more noticeable. In reality, the signs of dehydrated skin are quite similar to those you get from sunburn. Dehydrated skin can occur at any time throughout the year and is often aggravated by the weather, air conditioning, indoor heat, wind, baths or saunas and, of course, our lifestyle choices. Things like smoking, drinking too much alcohol or caffeine and ingesting too much salt can all contribute to skin dehydration. We also need to be conscientious of what we are putting on our skin. Using skincare products that contain a lot of harsh and irritating ingredients, or that aren’t dermatologist-tested, can further provoke the condition.

So, what can we do? Be sure to keep your body hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Be conscientious of what you are putting in and on your body. Be diligent with your morning and evening skincare regimen. Look for moisturizing ingredients, such as Aloe vera to provide the skin with the much-needed moisture it lacks. Choose facial and body cleansers that are free from sulfates, as they will be much gentler on the skin. And, be sure to always apply your moisturizer from head to toe to keep your skin hydrated throughout the day. If you are really suffering, you may want to consider a warm mist humidifier to increase the humidity in your home or office.

Keeping your body well hydrated both inside and out, is the key to keeping your skin looking healthy and youthful. A healthy diet, coupled with a daily skincare regimen is exactly what your skin needs. Remember, the healthiest skin is always the most beautiful!